Colossians 4:3-4 We pray. God responds.

If you are a Christian, your actions and your words should be reflections of God’s words that light up your heart. That is every Christian’s calling. There are those who are called to do this as their vocation–devote their lives to spreading God’s Good News. And they need our prayers. Our prayers of thanks, intercession,… Read More

Colossians 4:2 Pray all day

What does prayer look like? There is not just one way to pray, but as you live, you pray. Like Tim Tebow: down on one knee with head bowed. In a closet, alone with God. In a group without saying a word. Lying prone. Driving your car with your eyes wide open. Crying. Laughing. Angry.… Read More

Be the sheep–give up control!

I have not engaged in witchcraft, but I have tried to manipulate God through my prayers. For many years I tried a variety of prayer formats to get what I wanted–what I had decided I had a right to and God should give to me. I bargained, I promised,  I followed formulas … I wanted… Read More

Colossians 3:18-19 Go all out in love

Submission is not something we in America do well. I can’t speak for those in other countries, because I don’t have enough experience in and of your cultures. But individual rights and privileges–something I believe in and support–can lead us to think only of ourselves and what we deserve and have rights to.  Individualistic thinking–what’s… Read More

Colossians 3:17 Take myself out of the limelight

I have been wondering lately, how much of what I do is so that people will think good of me? If I am living for God, trying to be someone who reflects His light to the world, why do I feel the need to have my shadow–my silhouette–superimposed on His light? What would it look… Read More

Colossians 3:16 Pay attention

Today I am memorizing and saying Proverbs 4:20-23 out loud at least seven times. I must admit, this is my own translation of the verse–helps me to remember it easier. I was amazed at how much it aligns with today’s text of Colossians 3:16. Thank you for reiterating, Lord. Say Proverbs 4:20-23 out loud with… Read More

Colossians 3:15 If I cultivate thankfulness, what will I reap?

How does cultivating thankfulness generate peace and harmony? Try a variation on counting to ten next time you are irritated, frustrated, or ready to give up on something or someone. Name ten things you are thankful for right now–big and small, physical or emotional, person or situation. Or try listing ten things you are thankful… Read More